Harrisburg, March 14^R[?], 1856

Genl. Banks

On my return to my desk after an absence of some days yours of the 9^th inst was laid before me From its tone I cannot but think that my letter, to which yours is a reply, was misunderstood. I did not intend it to convey any reflection upon your official conduct. If it was understood by you to do so I feel it due to myself to disclaim any thing of the kind

In your letter of Nov. 21^st, 1855 you stated "that it was desirable to have the settlements made as rappidly as possible" I therefore did not think it wrong to ask you to settle the accounts named In reference to the accounts against defaulters generally I certainly respect the kinder feelings which appear to have governed you. Yet in my veiw promptness is more efficient than kindness and; in the end does, less in justice. Any man who will use money belonging to the State for his own private purposes takes a downward step which in nine cases out of ten ends in utter ruin. In almost every instance when such a man has had time given him it has ended in involving his bail. In very many instances prompt and some what though apparently harsh action would have secured the money from the defaulter, himself, while delay has brought trouble and loss upon the security his sureties. You have a very recent instance in your own County where a man has been undisturbed for several years with over seven thousand dollars of the public money in his hands and now, that he has failed, his bail one[?] made to suffer. I, of course, disclaim any right or any desire to dictate to you. Yet while I am held responsible for the proper management of the finances I cannot but advise that suits should be brought against every party ascertained to be really in default to the State.

Eli Slifer